Saudi Arabia has resumed imports from Lebanon, with the first shipment of Lebanese exports departing the Port of Beirut for Jeddah Islamic Port, marking the resumption of bilateral trade after a five-year import ban.
The Kingdom lifted the ban last week after Lebanese authorities introduced stricter security and customs measures at ports, airports, and land border crossings to curb smuggling and strengthen border controls.
The departure ceremony was attended by Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam; Saudi Ambassador to Lebanon Fahd Al-Dosari; ministers of finance, industry, agriculture, economy, and trade; heads of relevant government agencies; members of the Saudi Embassy; and representatives from the political and business communities.
The resumption of imports follows directives issued on June 10 by His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, in response to a request from Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Nawaf Salam.
Saudi Arabia said that the decision was taken in recognition of the positive measures implemented by the Lebanese government to strengthen state institutions and improve security and inspection procedures for exports.
Ambassador Al-Dosari said that the first shipment from Beirut to Jeddah Islamic Port marked the official resumption of Lebanese exports to the Saudi market.
The decision reflects the longstanding relationship between Saudi Arabia and Lebanon and the Kingdom’s support for Lebanon’s stability, sovereignty, and the well-being of its people.
Al-Dosari added that Saudi Arabia is confident in the Lebanese state’s efforts to continue implementing the necessary measures to ensure its territory is not used to harm other countries.
Prime Minister Nawaf Salam welcomed the resumption of exports and reaffirmed Lebanon’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with Arab countries.
Lebanese authorities have introduced new measures at ports, airports, and land border crossings to improve cargo inspections and customs oversight.
Following the ceremony, officials toured newly installed cargo-scanning systems at the Port of Beirut that are designed to strengthen security monitoring while facilitating customs clearance procedures.
The resumption of exports is expected to strengthen bilateral trade and restore Lebanese exporters’ access to the Saudi market.
